Dental bridge attachment system and method

ABSTRACT

Provided is a removable bridge system for attachment to a plurality of dental implants, including a plurality of abutments, each including a seat portion conforming with a shape of a corresponding implant head and allowing fixedly positioning of the abutment to the implant, and an abutment head. At least one of the abutments is configured as a locking abutment and includes a locking portion. A bridge generally conforming with dental parameters of the individual has a bottom surface formed with a receiving apertures shaped so as to snugly fit over a corresponding abutment head. The bridge further includes a locking arrangement for removably locking the bridge to the abutments, and including one or more locks for detachable locking to a respective at least one locking abutment.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosed subject matter is concerned with a system and amethod for attachment of a dental bridge to dental implants of anindividual.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Partial or complete loss of an individual's natural teeth, either orboth at the upper and lower jaw, due to age, accident, diseases or otherreasons has some serious effects on an individual, both functionally andsocially. Lack of teeth poses several serious functional problems suchas distortion of the individual's face, not being able to chew, speechdifficulties, etc. Even more so, a smile with a full set of white teethis considered something to be desired, i.e. esthetics play an importantrole. These problems become more severe depending on the number ofmissing teeth.

Utilization of artificial denture appliance poses a general problemconcerned with retention of same in position as during normal chewing ortalking, the appliance may have the tendency to ride up out of itsposition, causing speech difficulties, chewing difficulties, spittingand other social unpleasant situations, resulting in generalunsatisfactory.

The term dental bridge (often simply referred to as bridges) as usedherein the specification and claims denotes an integrated array ofartificial teeth mimicking the teeth of a individual and designed foranchoring over two or more studs fixed to the individual's jaw bone(mandibular or maxillar), without the skirt portion, i.e. the gummimicking portion (at times referred to as an ‘acrylic flange’). Theterm mimicking suggests that the bridge follows the individual'sanatomical parameters, such as shape, size, color etc.

The terms studs and implants are used interchangeably throughout thespecification and claims.

A challenge in this field is designing and manufacturing the bridge soas to achieve perfect fitting thereof to the particular needs andanatomical parameters of the individual.

There are known personalized dentures, such as, for example, US2006/0223029, disclosing a removable denture system comprising a supportbeam fixedly attached to the individual's alveolar ridge above themucous membrane by a plurality of dental implants, and a denturegenerally conforming with the dental parameters of the individual andintegrated with a super-structure. The super-structure comprises atleast a portion shaped in confirmation with the support beam, and adenture locking arrangement for removably, though fixedly articulatingthe denture to the support beam preventing unintentional disengagementof the denture.

Dental bridges are known to be fixed to implants by means of connectingelements, referred to as ‘abutments’, or by direct fixing thereof to theimplants. An abutment is usually fastened to the implant at its one endand to a bridge or another element at its other end. In the installedstate the abutments are usually invisible or visible to a limited degreein the patient's mouth. One example of such abutments is disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 6,788,986.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosed subject matter is concerned, according to a firstaspect thereof, with a dental bridge configured for fixedly detachableanchorage over the studs, i.e. in a fashion facilitating fast and easymounting yet fixedly supporting so as to obtain a sturdy and secureengagement to the studs, and however suited for easy removal.

According to this aspect of the present disclosed subject matter thereis provided a removable bridge system for attachment to a plurality ofdental implants, each implant having an implant body fixedly receivedinside a jawbone of an individual and an implant head projected fromsaid jawbone. The system comprises:

-   -   a plurality of abutments, each comprising a seat portion formed        with a shape conforming with a shape of a corresponding implant        head and allowing fixedly positioning of the abutment to the        implant, and an abutment head; at least one of said abutments is        configured as a locking abutment and comprises a locking        portion;    -   a bridge generally conforming with dental parameters of the        individual, having a bottom surface formed with a receiving        apertures, each aperture shaped so as to snugly fit, at high        tolerance, over a corresponding abutment head; and    -   the bridge further comprises a locking arrangement for removably        locking the bridge to said abutments, and comprising one or more        locks for detachable locking to a respective at least one        locking abutment.

The load applied through the bridge while chewing is fully born by theabutments and directed to the studs (and further to the bone tissue),whilst the one or more locks substantially do not bear any loads.Furthermore, the tolerance between the receiving apertures of the bridgeand the respective abutment heads is tight, so as to reduce, orsubstantially eliminate any tolerance and respective motiontherebetween. However, removal of the bridge is facilitatedsubstantially without the need of any tools.

It is further noted that whilst the locking mechanism in itself does notbear loads (i.e. a locking pin, where provided is not subject to anyloads), the housing of the locking mechanism may function as a receivingaperture configured for snugly bearing over the locking abutment.

The present invention disclosed subject matter further calls for amethod for applying a patient with a dental bridge at a removablysecured fashion, the method comprises the following steps:

-   -   fixing at least two implants inside a jawbone of the individual,        each having an implant body fixedly received within the jawbone        and an implant head projected from said jawbone;    -   obtaining a plurality of abutments each comprising a seat formed        with a shape conforming with a shape of a corresponding implant        head, and an abutment head, wherein at least one of said        abutments is configured as a locking abutment and comprises a        locking portion. Fixing said seat portions of the abutments over        said implant heads;    -   providing a bridge generally conforming with dental parameters        of the individual, having a bottom surface configured with a        plurality of receiving apertures, each conforming at high        tolerance with the shape of a respective abutment. Said bridge        further configured with at least one lock for detachable locking        to a respective at least one locking abutment;    -   snugly fitting said bridge over corresponding abutment heads and        locking/unlocking the locking arrangement.

Any one or more of the following features and designs may beincorporated in the bridge system and method in accordance with thepresent disclosed subject matter:

-   -   The locking arrangement comprises at least one and typically two        or more locks for releasable locking engagement;    -   The seat portion of the abutments extends about a fixation bore        (for securing thereof to the implants by abutment screws)        configured with an inner shape corresponding with an outer shape        of the implant head;    -   The seat portion of the abutments may be of any regular or        irregular shape;    -   The abutments are made of any rigid, metallic or non-metallic        material (such as, for example, metals—gold, titanium,        chrome-cobalt, zirconium, porcelain, plastic/acrylic/polymeric        materials, composite materials, and combinations thereof);    -   The bridge is made of any rigid, metallic or non-metallic        material (such as, for example, metals—gold, titanium,        chrome-cobalt, zirconium, porcelain, plastic/acrylic/polymeric        materials, composite materials, and combinations thereof);    -   The locking arrangement comprises any type of one or more locks        such as swivel-type, magnet based locks, locators, or any other        type of locking mechanism;    -   According to one example the locks are a pin-type locks, each        lock configured with a locking pin displaceable through either a        rear face (lingual face) or a front face (labial face) of the        bridge, between a locked position in which it arrests a locking        bore configured at the locking portion of a respective locking        abutment (wherein the bridge is prevented from displacement        about a path of insertion thereof), and un-locked position where        it is disengaged from said locking portion (and whereby the        bridge may be removed along its path of insertion);    -   An ejection bore may extend across the abutment and dental        bridge, coaxial with the locking pin, to assist in displacing        the pin into the unlocked position;    -   The bridge system may be mounted over an adapter abutment to be        received between the seat portion of the abutment and the        implant head. This option is especially useful when the gum        tissue is relatively high, or when angular adjustment is        required respective to a longitudinal axial of a respective        dental implant;

According to another aspect of the present disclosed subject matterthere is disclosed an adapter abetment to be received between the seatportion of the abutment and the implant head. This option is especiallyuseful when the gum tissue is relatively high, or when angularadjustment is required respective to a longitudinal axial of arespective dental implant.

Even more so, the adapter abetment is suitable for coupling andinterconnecting between different types of different implant systems.

The adapter abutment is configured with an adapter seat portionconfigured for motionless fixation over a dental implant head anddefining an adapter seat portion axis, and an adapter head portionconfigured for motionless affixing thereto a seat portion of anabutment, and defining an adapter head portion axis; with an adapterabutment body portion extending between said adapter seat portion andsaid adapter head portion. However, the head portion of an adapterabutment may also be suited for directly supporting the bridge.

Any one or more of the following features and designs may beincorporated in an adapter abutment in accordance with the presentdisclosed subject matter:

-   -   The adapter seat portion axis and the adapter head portion axis        may coextend or may be parallel to one another though        non-coaxial, or intersect one another;    -   The adapter abutment body portion may extend coaxial with any of        the said adapter seat portion and said adapter head portion;    -   Each of the adapter seat portion and the adapter head portion        may be of any regular or irregular shape;    -   Each of the adapter seat portion and the adapter head portion        may be configures as either a mail-type coupler (referred to in        the art as ‘internal connection) or a female-type coupler        (referred to in the art as ‘external connection), configured for        fixedly coupling engagement, at fixed angular orientation, with        respect to a dental implant head and a seat portion of an        abutment, respectively. It is noted that the phrase hex refers        in fact to any polygonal shape;    -   The adapter seat portion and the adapter head portion may be        identical couple-types or different coupler-types;    -   The adapter abutment may be secured over the head of a standard        abutment and further to the dental implant head using a single        fastener screw;    -   An abutment may be secured directly over the adapter head        portion, and/or via a fastener screw.    -   The adapter abutment, at an assembled position of the dental        bridge, are fully received and concealed within the dental        bridge;    -   The adapter abutment may comprise a locking portion, for locking        engagement with a locking arrangement;    -   The adapter abutment allows to extend (elongate) the implant to        a desired height and at a desired angle with respect to the        implant, so as to allow convenient fixation of elements such as        abutments and unitary braces described above, or other elements        adapted to be fixed on the dental implants.

According to another aspect of the present disclosed subject matterthere is provided a bridge system for attachment to a jawbone of anindividual, the system comprising:

-   -   a plurality of dental implants, each configured with an implant        body for fixedly receiving inside the jawbone, and an implant        head projected from said jawbone;    -   a Reduced Bridge-Core made of rigid material and configured for        fixedly mounting and securing to the plurality of dental        implants over the implant heads, or over abutments (secured in        turn to the dental implants);    -   a Super Dental-Bridge generally conforming with the dental        parameters of the individual, and formed with a bottom surface        having a recess extending substantially there along; the Super        Dental-Bridge is adapted for snugly receiving said Reduced        Bridge-Core within said recess at a tight fit; and    -   a fixing arrangement for fixing said Super Dental-Bridge to said        Reduced Bridge-Core.

The load applied through the Super Dental-Bridge while chewing is fullyborn by the Reduced Bridge-Core and is then directed to the abutmentsand further to the studs to the bone tissue, whilst the one or morelocks substantially do not bear any loads.

Furthermore, the tolerance between the receiving apertures of the SuperDental-Bridge and the respective Reduced Bridge-Core is tight, so as toreduce, or substantially eliminate any tolerance and respective motiontherebetween.

However, when using locator-type locking mechanisms (or similar typelocking mechanisms), axially directed loads only, are transferredthrough a longitudinal axis of the locator.

It is further noted that whilst the locking mechanism in itself does notbear loads (i.e. a locking pin, where provided is not subject to anyloads), the housing of the locking mechanism may function as a receivingaperture configured for snugly bearing over the locking abutment.

Any one or more of the following features and designs may be applied tothe bridge system in accordance with the present disclosed subjectmatter described above:

-   -   The Reduced Bridge-Core is a unitary element and continuously        extends within the Super Dental-Bridge;    -   The recess configured at the bottom surface of the Super        Dental-Bridge is continuous;    -   The recess configured at the bottom surface of the Super        Dental-Bridge is deeper than the height of the Reduced        Bridge-Core, such that at the assembled position, when the Super        Dental-Bridge is mounted over the Reduced Bridge-Core, the later        is concealed by the Super Dental-Bridge;    -   The Reduced Bridge-Core is configured in a shape simulating the        individual's dental parameters, and his teeth, though at reduced        scale;    -   Base portions of the Reduced Bridge-Core conform with the shape        of respective implant heads, and configured for fixedly securing        thereto;    -   The reduced bridge is configured for fixedly securing directly        over the implant heads, or over abutments which in turn are        fixed to the implants;    -   The Reduced Bridge-Core is made of any rigid, metallic or        non-metallic material (such as, for example, metals-gold,        titanium, chrome-cobalt, zirconium, porcelain,        plastic/acrylic/polymeric materials, composite materials, and        combinations thereof);    -   The Super Dental-Bridge is made of any rigid, metallic or        non-metallic material (such as, for example, metals-gold,        titanium, chrome-cobalt, zirconium, porcelain,        plastic/acrylic/polymeric materials, composite materials, and        combinations thereof). When the material of which the Super        Dental-Bridge is a structural material, there is need to apply        thereto a finishing layer mimicking the shape, size, color and        texture of the natural teeth;    -   The fixing arrangement may be a locking mechanism facilitating        repeatable locking/unlocking of the Super Dental-Bridge over the        Reduced Bridge-Core, where removal of the Super Dental-Bridge is        facilitated by the individual, or a fixed securing arrangement,        where removal of the Super Dental-Bridge is facilitated by        dentist rather than by the individual;    -   Where there is provided a locking mechanism facilitating        repeatable locking/unlocking of the Super Dental-Bridge over the        Reduced Bridge-Core, there may be provided, within the Super        Dental-Bridge, a reinforcement structure configured for        supporting the one or more locking mechanisms within the Super        Dental-Bridge;    -   A fixed securing arrangement may be an adhesive/bonding agent        applied between the Super Dental-Bridge and the Reduced        Bridge-Core, or fasteners such screws and the like.    -   A locking mechanism may be any type of one or more locks such as        swivel-type, magnet based locks, locators, etc.;    -   There are one or more locks, being pin-type locks, each lock        configured with a locking pin displaceable through either a rear        face (lingual face) or a front face (labial face) of the Super        Dental-Bridge, between a locked position in which it arrests a        locking bore configured at the locking portion of a respective        locking abutment (wherein the bridge is prevented from        displacement about a path of insertion thereof), and un-locked        position where it is disengaged from said locking portion (and        whereby the bridge may be removed along its path of insertion);    -   An ejection bore may extend across the abutment and Super        Dental-Bridge, coaxial with the locking pin, to assist in        displacing the pin into the unlocked position;

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be carriedout in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way ofnon-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings,in which:

FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of a dental bridge system accordingto a first aspect of the present disclosed subject matter, at anassembled position;

FIG. 1B is a rear perspective view of a dental bridge system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 1C is a rear perspective view of the dental bridge system of FIG.2, with the bridge removed from the jaw;

FIG. 1D is a front perspective view of the dental bridge system of FIG.2, with the bridge removed from the jaw;

FIG. 1E is a rear bottom view of the dental bridge illustrated in FIGS.1A to 1D, with the locking members at their open, unlocked position;

FIG. 1F is a front bottom view of FIG. 1E;

FIG. 1G is a rear exploded view of the dental bridge system of FIG. 1A,with the locking members at their open, unlocked position;

FIG. 2A is a schematic top view of an abutment constituting part of thebridge system shown in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2B is a schematic bottom view FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along a planedesignated by line II-II in FIG. 2A;

FIGS. 3A to 3E are illustrations of different abutments according to thepresent invention;

FIGS. 4A and 4B are rear isometric views of a portion of the dentalbridge shown in FIG. 1, with a lock mechanism at an open and closedposition, respectively;

FIGS. 4C and 4D are cross-sectional views taken along planes designatedby lines II-II, and in FIGS. 4A and 4B, respectively;

FIGS. 4E and 4F are cross-sectional views taken along planes designatedby lines VI-VI, and VII-VII—in FIGS. 4A and 4B, respectively;

FIG. 5 is an exploded isometric illustration of a dental bridge supportsystem according to another example of the present disclosed subjectmatter;

FIG. 6A is a perspective exploded view of a dental bridge systemaccording to another aspect of the present disclosed subject matter;

FIG. 6B is an isometric view of the bridge system shown in FIG. 6A, thedental bridge partially cutout;

FIG. 6C is a bottom view of the dental bridge constituting a part of thebridge system shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B;

FIGS. 6D and 6E are perspective bottom and top views, respectively, of aReduced Bridge-Core constituting a part of the bridge system shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B;

FIG. 6F illustrates a bridge system similar to FIGS. 6A to 6D, howeverwith locator-type locks;

FIGS. 7A to 7D are illustrations of adapter abutment according toanother aspect of the present disclosed subject matter for use with theimplants of kind shown in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 8A to 8F are bottom perspective views of further examples ofadapter abutments;

FIG. 9A is an exploded top perspective view of an abutment fitted withan internal seat coupler and a fastener screw;

FIG. 9B is an assembly of FIG. 9A; and

FIG. 10 is an exploded top perspective view of a locking abutment fittedwith an internal seat coupler, and a fastener screw and locking member.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

With reference to FIGS. 1A to 1G there is illustrated a bridge systemaccording to a first aspect of the present disclosed subject matter,generally designated 20, comprising a dental bridge 22, a plurality ofabutments generally designated 24 (FIGS. 1C, 1D and 1G) secured overdental implants generally designated 26 (FIG. 1G) and lockingarrangements generally designated 30. A dental bridge is at timesreferred to merely as bridge.

The dental bridge 22 is an integrated array of artificial teeth 28 (withsubstantially no real gaps therebetween), mimicking the natural lostteeth of a individual, i.e. follows the individual's anatomicparameters, such as shape, size, color etc., and conforming withresident natural teeth or artificial teeth of the individual, howeverwithout a skirt portion i.e. a gum mimicking portion (at times referredto as an ‘acrylic flange’). The dental bridge is made of any rigid andhard metallic or non-metallic material (such as, for example,metals—gold, titanium, chrome-cobalt, zirconium, porcelain,plastic/acrylic/polymeric materials, composite materials, andcombinations thereof), molded or machined or composited of severalmaterials and layers.

With reference to FIG. 1G, the bridge 22 comprises a bottom surface 29and an inside face (lingual or palatal wall) 31 generally uprightextending from the bottom surface 29. The bottom surface 29 isconfigured with a plurality of receiving apertures 34, each formed forprecision fit (substantially no movement therebetween) over at least amajor portion of a corresponding abutment 24, as detailed below.

The dental implants 26, typically made of metal, are each configuredwith a body portion 36 and a head portion 38, and extend about alongitudinal axis A₁. The body portion 36 of the dental implants 26 isfixedly received within jawbone J of an individual and extends throughthe gum tissue G such that implant head 38 projects there through. Eachimplant head 38 comprises an upward extension 45 of a hexagonal shape,as shown in FIG. 1, or any other shape, as will be discussed hereinafterin connection with other examples.

Each of the abutments 24 is configured for fixedly securing to arespective implants 26, and for that purpose each abutment 24 comprisesa seat portion 40 having a receptacle 42 (FIGS. 2B and 2C) formed withan inner shape conforming with the outer shape of the extension 45 ofthe implant head 38, so as to allow the abutment 24 to fixedly engagethe corresponding implant head 38, i.e. with substantial no respectivemovement therebetween. The inner shape of the receptacle 42 may be ahexagon (FIG. 2B) or any polygonal shape such as an octagon, a square, atriangle, a rectangle or any irregular shape that conforms with theshape of the upward extension 45 of the implant head 38, so as to ensurefixed positioning of the abutment 24 over the implant 26, andsubstantial no movement therebetween.

The abutment 24 is further configured with an abutment head 48, designedfor snugly fitting within the corresponding aperture 34 configured atthe bottom surface 29 of the bridge 22. The abutment head 48 of at leastseveral of the abutments (or all) is formed with a lock cradling portion52 configured to receive a lock housing 70 of a lock mechanism 72 aswill be discussed hereinafter in connection with FIG. 4. The lockcradling portion 52 is configured, according to a particular example, toembrace a significant portion of the respective lock housing, therebyincreasing and improving the tight fit of the bridge 22 over theabutments 24. The cradling portions 52 are formed with a locking pinarresting portion 56, which in the present example is a through goingbore, extending substantially coaxial with a locking pin 62 of the lockmechanism 72.

The abutment head 48 further comprises a through going bore 50 (FIGS. 1Gand 2A to 2C), extending along the abutment head 24, for screwingtherein an abutment screw 54 for fixedly securing the abutment 24 to theimplant 26, in a fashion assuring no movement therebetween.

The abutments 24 are made of any rigid and hard metallic or non-metallicmaterial (such as, for example, metals—gold, titanium, chrome-cobalt,zirconium, porcelain, plastic/acrylic/polymeric materials, compositematerials, and combinations thereof), molded or machined or compositedof several materials and layers.

The abutment 24 illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2C is configured such thatthe seat portion 40 and the head portion 48 have a coextending axis A₂which upon mounting over the implant head 38 coextends with the axis A₁of the implant 26. This however is a particular example which as will bedisclosed in connection with some of the drawings, may be different.

It is further appreciated that the number of locks 72 may change,depending on different parameters such as space, strength of material,accessibility thereto by the individual, etc. it is also noted that oneor more of the abutments may be regular abutments, i.e. not configuredwith a locking portion of at least one of said abutments is configuredas a locking abutment and comprises a locking portion 52 (cradlingportion 52). Thus, where for some reason it is required to provide fewerlocks (however one or more are required) whilst preparing for optionaladditional rings, the abutments may be of the type disclosed hereinabovein connection with FIGS. 1 and 2, namely configured the locking portion52, competent of arresting and supporting the lock housing 72, howeverwithout a respective lock fitted at the respective location at thebridge 22.

The locking arrangement generally designated 30 is configured forremovably fixing the bridge 22 to the abutments 24. The lockingarrangement 30 comprises one or more locks 72 (two locks in the exampleof FIG. 1), pin-snap type locks in the present example though otherforms of locks are possible too, stetting as an example, snap-typelocks, swivel-type locks, magnet based locks, locator-type locks, or anyother type of locking mechanism.

The locks 72, as can be seen in more detail in FIGS. 4A to 4F isconfigured with a housing 70 fixedly secured within the bridge 22 e.g.by welding, bonding or otherwise securing, and extending through therear wall 31 of the bridge 22, and extending into the correspondingreceiving aperture 34 of the bridge 22. It is however appreciated thatsome or all of the locks may be fitted at the front wall (labial face)of the bridge (not shown).

The housing serves as a bushing accommodating an axially displaceablelocking pin locking pin 62 fitted with a locking portion (extending atthe distal end thereof, namely within the receiving aperture 34 of thebridge 22) and formed with an annular limiting ring 79 (FIGS. 4C and 4D)at the end of the locking portion for limiting its displacement throughthe bushing 70, wherein the locking pin 62 is axially displaceablebetween a locked position (FIGS. 4B, 4D and 4F) and an open position(FIGS. 4A, 4C and 4E). The locking pin 62 is further formed with a flatgrasping disc-like portion 80 at its fore end, to facilitate theextracting of the locking pin 62 by the individual's fingernail or byother means. In addition, an interstice 76 may exist between the rearsurface 31 of the bridge and the grasping ring 74 to facilitate theextracting of the locking pin 62. If required, a cushioning andinterstice adjusting ring 78 is provided.

As already mentioned hereinabove, the shape and size of the lock'shousing 70 is configured such that when a bridge is applied over theabutments, the inside walls of the receiving apertures 34 of the bridge22 snugly embrace the respective abutments and the respective lockingportion 52 (FIG. 1G) receives the housing of the locks to therebyincrease the tight and snug fit of the bridge 22 over the abutments 24.

The arrangement is such that after applying and positioning the bridgeover the abutments 24, the locking pin 62 is depressed inwards into theposition of FIGS. 4B, 4D and 4F, whereby the locking pin 62 engageswithin the locking pin arresting portion 56 of the abutment 24 withinthe receiving aperture 34 of the bridge 22. In the open position, uponaxially extracting the locking pin 62 into the position of FIGS. 4A, 4Cand 4E, the locking pin 62 is extracted so it is no longer arrested bythe locking pin arresting portion 56 of the abutment head 24, allowingthereby the removal of the bridge 22.

The load applied through the bridge 22 while chewing is fully born bythe abutments 24 and directed to the studs 26 (and further to the jawbone J), whilst the one or more locks 72 substantially do not bear anyloads. Furthermore, the tolerance between the receiving apertures of thebridge and the respective abutment heads is tight, so as to reduce, orsubstantially eliminate any tolerance and respective motiontherebetween.

However, removal of the bridge is facilitated substantially without theneed of any tools. It is further appreciated that the lockingarrangement is intended rather to prevent unintentional disengagement orremoval of the bridge, for example while chewing.

It is further noted that whilst the locking mechanism in itself does notbear loads (i.e. the locking pin, where provided is not subject to anyloads), whilst the housing of the locking mechanism may function as areceiving aperture configured for snugly bearing over the lockingabutment.

As mentioned above, there may be provided a fine ejection bore (71 inFIG. 1A) extending across the respective abutment and the dental bridge,coaxial with the locking pin, to assist in extracting the pin into theunlocked position, by pushing it inwards using a fine rod (e.g. a paperstapler, etc.)

Turning now to FIGS. 3A to 3D, there are illustrated several examples ofabutments according to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter,generally designated 100, 120, 140, 160 and 180, respectively. Each ofthe illustrated abutments comprises a seat portion designated 102, 122,142, 162 and 182 respectively, a head portion designated 104, 124, 144,164 and 184 respectively, and a body portion extending between the seatportion and head portion designated 106, 126, 146, 166 and 186,respectively. Each of the seat portions defines a seat axis A_(S) andeach of the head portions define an head axis A_(H), wherein it isnoticeable that these axes may coextend (FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C), or extendparallel to one another (FIG. 3D) or may intersect one another (FIG.3E).

It is also noted that various modifications are provided for theabutments. For example, the abutment 100 of FIG. 3A is configured suchthat the abutment head 104 is configured with a laterally extendingflange like projection 110, constituting an arresting portion and thusfitted with an aperture 112 for arresting a locking pin of a lockmechanism, not shown.

In the example of FIG. 3B the arresting portion 130 is a significantdepression within the body 126 of the abutment, and it is fitted with aradial aperture 132 for arresting a locking pin of a lock mechanism, notshown.

In the example of FIG. 3C the abutment 120 comprises an arrestingportion 152A and a through going aperture 152B radially extendingthrough the tubular head portion 144 of the abutment 140.

The abutment 160 exemplified in FIG. 3D is configured with a wide andsignificant arresting portion designated 170 configured within the body126 of the abutment, and it is fitted with a radial aperture 172 forarresting a locking pin of a lock mechanism, not shown.

The abutment 180 of FIG. 3E has an inclined configuration and isconfigured with an arresting portion 182 and a locking aperture 184.

Each of the abutments 100, 120, 140, 160 and 180, has a seat configuredfor fixedly engagement over a head portion 38 of a dental implants 26configured with an upward extension 45 (FIG. 1G) having a polygonalshape, or any other shape, to thereby eliminate any movement therebetween. More so, each of the respective abutment heads furthercomprises a through going bore (not seen), extending along the abutment,for screwing therein an abutment screw (not shown) for fixedly securingthe abutment to the implant, in a fashion assuring no movementtherebetween.

It is appreciated that the body portion, and at times the head portionand the respective arresting portion of the abutments, are manufacturedat high tolerance to provide for tight, snug arresting within therespective receiving aperture formed at the bottom face of the bridge.

An abutment having a non-coaxial configuration between the seat axisA_(S) and the head axis A_(H), when fixed on the implant head, theabutment may be oriented in any desired direction with respect to thelongitudinal axis A₁ of the implant, i.e. it may coextend, or extendparallel to one another (though not coextend), or may intersect oneanother. The choice of abutments and their positioning/orientation aredetermined according to the physiological and anatomic parameters of theindividual, e.g. face structure, jaw bone dimensions and status, teethsize, gums situation, implant angulation, etc.

With reference now being made to FIG. 5, there is illustrated anotherexample according to the present disclosed subject matter, illustratinga representative fixing assembly collectively designated 300 andcomposed of a dental implant 304 similar to that disclosed in FIG. 1G, astandard abutment 308 secured over the head portion 310 of the implant304, wherein the abutment is configured with a seat portion 316conforming in shape that of the upward extending external polygonalconnection support 318, and an external crown-like hexagonal forming310. The abutment 308 is fixedly secured to the dental implant 304 by ascrew 330 configured with a threaded stem portion 332 engageable by athreaded bore 334 of the implant 304.

A head portion 338 of the screw 330 is configured with a threaded bore340 and an external connection crown-like portion 346. An adapterabutment 350 is provided and is secured over the standard abutment 308.This is facilitated by a fixing screw 354 extending through an axialbore 356 of the adapter abutment 350 and fixedly engageable within thethreaded bore 340 of screw 330. A bottom portion of the adapter abutment350 (not seen) is configured with a receiving aperture 358, formed withhexagonal walls corresponding with those of the crown-like portion 310of the standard abutment 308, whereby the adapter abutment 350 may befixedly positioned at any desired angular setting.

The adapter abutment 350 is further configured with a locking pinarresting portion 360 and a pin arresting aperture 362 designed forarresting a locking pin 366 and the locking pin 368, respectively.

The above configuration facilitates for extending (elongating) theimplant to a desired height and at a desired angle with respect to theimplant, so as to allow convenient fixation of elements such asabutments and unitary braces described above, or other elements adaptedto be fixed on the dental implants

Noticeable, the arrangement disclosed in FIG. 5 is such that therelative positioning between the standard abutment 308 and the implant304, and further between the standard abutment 308 and abutment 350facilitates practically an unlimited range of angular and elevationpositioning, to thereby provide a most suitable fitting for the bridge,in spite of various special dental conditions of the individual, asmentioned hereinabove. Setting the relative position between thestandard abutment 308 and the implant 304, and further between thestandard abutment 308 and abutment 350 takes place by internal orexternal positioning formations (‘internal connection’, ‘externalconnection’), however not limited to any particular shape, i.e. regularor irregular shapes.

Further attention is now directed to FIGS. 6A to 6D, illustrating aremovable bridge system according to another aspect of the presentdisclosed subject matter, generally designated 400. The bridge system400 comprises a Super Dental-Bridge 404, a Reduced Bridge-Core 408 a setof dental implants 450 secured within the jaw bone J and projectingabove the gums G (FIG. 6B). In the particular example of FIGS. 6A and 6Bthere is further provided a locking arrangement comprising two pin-typelocks designated 414.

The Super Dental-Bridge 404 is integrated with a plurality of teeth 418generally conforming with dental parameters of the individual, so thatthe teeth 418 mimicking the individual's natural teeth as far as shape,size, color etc. The term integrated suggests that the teeth arecontinuous i.e. are attached to one another though interstices may show.The bridge is made of any rigid and hard metallic or non-metallicmaterial (such as, for example, metals—gold, titanium, chrome-cobalt,zirconium, porcelain, plastic/acrylic/ polymeric materials, compositematerials, and combinations thereof), molded or machined or compositedof several materials and layers.

The Super Dental-Bridge 404 is configured with a rear (lingual) face420, a front (labial) face 422 and as bottom surface 426 (FIG. 6C)formed with a recess 428 extending substantially the entire length ofthe bridge 404 for receiving therein the bridge core 408. The SuperDental-Bridge 404 is fitted with a plurality of locks 414 embeddedwithin the rear wall 420.

The Reduced Bridge-Core 408 is made of any rigid metallic ornon-metallic material (such as, for example, metals—gold, titanium,chrome-cobalt, zirconium, porcelain, plastic/acrylic/polymericmaterials, composite materials, and combinations thereof), molded ormachined or composited of several materials and layers. The ReducedBridge-Core 408 is formed with several thoroughgoing bores 432(extending at an upright plane) from a top surface thereof 434 (FIG. 6E)to a bottom surface 436 thereof (FIG. 6D). The bottom surface 436 isconfigured with depressions suited for receiving head portions of theabutments 450 projecting from the gums (FIG. 6A), and the thoroughgoingbores 432 facilitate to fixedly secure the Reduced Bridge-Core 408 overthe abutments 450 by screws 438, which abutments are in turn are securedto the studs (not seen). However, according to another example, theReduced Bridge-Core may be fixed directly to the studs or via adapterabutments, as may be the case. Noticeably, the Reduced Bridge-Core 408may be secured directly over the implants (not shown).

The Super Dental-Bridge 404 and the Reduced Bridge-Core 408 are shapedand sized conjointly i.e. such that the bridge fits at fit toleranceover the Reduced Bridge-Core, with substantial no tolerancestherebetween, to thereby substantially eliminate any relativedisplacement therebetween.

According to a first example (FIG. 6C), the Super Dental-Bridge 404 doesnot comprise any locks and thus fixation of the Super Dental-Bridge tothe Reduced Bridge-Core 408 takes place by applying an adhesive orbonding material therebetween, upon curing of which the SuperDental-Bridge becomes fixedly attached over the Reduced Bridge-Core andremoval thereof is facilitated by breaking the adhesive layer (thisoperation is usually performed by a professional). According to yet anexample, the bridge comprises several openings 440. In the particularillustration of FIG. 6C they are all performed on the top surface of theSuper Dental-Bridge, though in practice such openings are performed inan alignment with corresponding threaded bores formed in the ReducedBridge-Core or in alignment with screws 438 serving to fix the ReducedBridge-Core to the abutments, whereby the openings may be formed atvarious locations of the bridge. Once fixed to the Reduced Bridge-Coreby the screws, the openings 440 are disguised and sealed whereby removalof the Super Dental-Bridge is usually performed by a professional.

The Reduced Bridge-Core 408, according to one of its examples, is shapedso as to generally follow the shape of the individual's natural teeth,though at reduced scale. This arrangement results in a small ReducedBridge-Core 408, resulting in that the bridge need not be too largeeither, thus rendering it suitable also for individuals having smallface structure. However, the bridge snugly mounts over the ReducedBridge-Core, embracing it (apart of course from the bottom face of theReduced Bridge-Core), thus providing adequate fit and motion freeengagement therebetween, wherein the Reduced Bridge-Core is notnoticeable.

In the example of FIGS. 6A and 6B the bridge system 400 is fitted with alocking mechanism in the form of pin-type locks 414, of the typedisclosed herein above in connection with FIG. 4, said locksfacilitating fixed position of the Super Dental-Bridge over the ReducedBridge-Core owing to fit tolerance therebetween, and further lockingarrangements are provided, to thereby prevent unintentional extractionof the Super Dental-Bridge.

The locks 414 (four in the present example, though any appropriatenumber of locks is possible), are configured for fixing the bridge overthe Reduced Bridge-Core, however permitting it's readily and easyremoval by the individual. Yet, it is noted that any loads appliedthrough the Super Dental-Bridge while chewing are fully born by theReduced Bridge-Core (and through the abutments to the studs and to therespective jaw bone) whilst any one or more locks substantially do notbear any loads. Furthermore, the tolerance between the receivingaperture of the bridge and the respective Reduced Bridge-Core is tight,so as to reduce, or substantially eliminate any tolerance and respectivemotion therebetween. However, removal of the bridge is facilitatedsubstantially without the need of any tools.

In this example too, the Super Dental-Bridge may be configured with afine bore extending across the respective Reduced Bridge-Core and thedental bridge, coaxial with the displaceable locking pin, to assist inextracting the pin into the unlocked position, by pushing it inwardsusing a fine rod. The locks may be configured on either or both thefront face and the rear face of the Super Dental-Bridge.

The example of FIG. 6F illustrates a bridge system similar to theexample of FIGS. 6A to 6E, however where the Super Dental-Bridge 480 isconfigured for locking over the Reduced Bridge-Core 482 by locator typelocks comprising a plurality of upwardly extending projections 484projecting from the Reduced Bridge-Core 482 and configured for arrestingby receptacles 486 fitted with resilient arresting material andconfigured at a bottom surface 488 of the Super Dental-Bridge 480.

With further reference now being made to FIGS. 7 and 8 there areillustrated different examples of adapter abutments. Adapter abutmentsare configured for fixed positioning directly over a stud or over astandard abutment (e.g. regular abutment 308 in FIG. 5), and fixedlysupporting a bridge supporting abutment (a regular bridge bearingabutment, such as abutment 350 in FIG. 1G, or a locking abutment, suchas abutment 24 in FIG. 1G), i.e. serves as an adjusting coupling elementbetween the bridge supporting abutment and the stud.

The adapter abutments of FIGS. 7A to 7D are generally designated 700,710, 720, and 730, respectively and are each configured with a seatportion 702, 712, 722 and 732, respectively, and a head portion 704,714, 724 and 734, respectively.

The base portion of each adapter abutment is configured for fixedlysecuring over a stud (not shown, however for example of the type shownin FIG. 1G) and thus is configured with a corresponding coupler seat(hexagonal in the present examples), so as to prevent any motion betweenthe stud and the adapter abutment. FIGS. 7A to 7C illustrate an adapterabutment in which the seat is configured with a connector in the form ofa female type coupler, i.e. for mounting over a corresponding male seat706, 716 and 726, respectively (illustrated by dashed lines) of a studof the type shown in FIG. 1G. FIG. 7D illustrates an adapter abutment inwhich the seat 736 is configured with a connector in the form of a maletype coupler for mounting over a corresponding female type seat of astud (not shown). A fastener screw 711 is illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7Bfor example, for fastening to a stud (or an abetment) through a bore 713thoroughgoing.

In FIG. 7D the abutment 730 is configured with a downward projectingmale-type coupling projection 739 (hexagonal in the present example),designated, for secure fixation of the abutment to a female typereceptacle of a stud.

The head portion 704, 714, 724 and 734 of each of the adapter abutments700, 710, 720, and 730, respectively, is also configured with aconnector for coupling to a respective bridge supporting abutment at afixed, substantially motion less manner. Head connectors 708, 718 and728 are female type connectors, for supporting a corresponding male typeseat connector of the bridge supporting abutment. The head portion 734of adapter abutment 730 is configured with an external female typeconnector 738, for supporting a corresponding female type connector ofthe bridge supporting abutment (not shown).

In the present examples the coupling connectors (708, 718, 728, 738,706, 716, 726 and 736) are illustrated as regular polygonal shapes.However, the connectors may vary in shape, and size and may be anyregular or irregular shape, internal or external (male or female type).

Furthermore, the head portion of each of the adapter abutments mayextend at an angle with respect to a corresponding seta portion (FIGS.7A and 7B) or coaxial with the respective seat portion (FIGS. 7C and7D).

The provision of adapter abutments is desired for one or more of thefollowing reasons:

-   -   Increasing the height of a bridge supporting abutment (i.e. the        abutment over which a bridge is received) with respect to a        stud;    -   Changing the angle of a bridge supporting abutment with respect        to an axial axis of the stud;    -   Changing a coupling platform to a bridge supporting abutment;    -   Changing a coupling platform to a stud;    -   Interconnecting between different implant systems.

FIGS. 8A to 8F, illustrate further examples of abutments designated 740,750, 760, 770, 780 and 790 respectively. In these examples the adapterabutments are substantially cylindrical and of same height (this beingan example only), and are each configured with a circular head portion742, 752, 762, 772, 782, and 792 respectively, and an upwardlyprojecting external connection connector 744, 754, 764, 774, 784 and 794respectively. The adapter abutments 742, 752, 762, 772 and 782 are eachconfigured also with a circular seat portion 746, 756, 766, 776, and 786respectively, however, each configured with an internal connectionconnector differently shaped (pentagon, hexagon, circular, triangularand square, respectively). The abutment 790 of FIG. 8F is fitted at itsseat with a downward projecting male-type coupling projection 799(square in the present example), designated, for secure fixation of theabutment to a female type receptacle of a stud.

FIG. 9A is an exploded top perspective view of an abutment 810(resembling that illustrated in FIG. 5), however fitted with a hexagonalinternal seat coupler 814 projecting at bottom side thereof and afastener screw 820. FIG. 9B illustrates an assemblage of the abutment810 and the fastener screw 820.

FIG. 10 is an exploded top perspective view of a locking abutment 830fitted with a hexagonal internal seat coupler 834, a fastener screw 837and a pin-type lock 838, of the type discussed herein above.

Those skilled in the art to which the present disclosed subject matterpertains will readily appreciate that numerous changes, variations, andmodifications can be made without departing from the scope of theinvention, mutatis mutandis.

1.-27. (canceled)
 28. An adapter abutment to be received between adental implant head and a seat portion of an abutment, the adapterabutment, comprising: an adapter seat portion configured for motionlessfixation over said dental implant head and defining an adapter seatportion axis; an adapter head portion configured for motionlesslyaffixing thereto a seat portion of said abutment, and defining anadapter head portion axis; and an adapter abutment body portionextending between said adapter seat portion and said adapter headportion.
 29. The adapter abutment according to claim 28, wherein theadapter seat portion axis and the adapter head portion axis extend atany position respective to one another, coextending, parallel orintersecting one another.
 30. The adapter abutment according to claim28, wherein the adapter abutment body portion extend coaxially with anyone of the adapter seat portion and the adapter head portion.
 31. Theadapter abutment according to claim 28, wherein one or more of theadapter seat portion and the adapter head portion are of any regular orirregular shape.
 32. The adapter abutment according to claim 28, whereinone or more of the adapter seat portion and the adapter head portionconfigure as either a male-type coupler or a female-type coupler,configured for fixedly coupling engagement, at fixed angularorientation, with respect to a dental implant head and a seat portion ofan abutment, respectively.
 33. The adapter abutment according to claim28, configured for securing directly over the head of the dentalimplant, by a fastener screw.
 34. The adapter abutment according toclaim 28, configured for securing directly over the adapter head portionof an abutment, by a fastener screw.
 35. The adapter abutment accordingto claim 28, comprising a locking portion configured for lockingengagement with a locking arrangement of a dental bridge.
 36. Theadapter abutment according to claim 28, comprising a througoing borecoaxial with the adapter seat portion axis, and a threaded boreextending along the adapter head portion axis.
 37. The adapter abutmentaccording to claim 36, wherein said througoing bore has a seat openingat a side wall portion of the adapter abutment and an opening at theadapter seat portion.